A postoperative patient with a nasogastric tube connected to low, intermittent suction is complaining of anxiety and severe incisional pain. The patient has a respiratory rate of 32 breaths per minute. The arterial blood gases (ABG) are pH 7.50, PaO₂ 90 mm Hg, PaCO₂ 30 mm Hg, and HCO₃ 23 mm Hg. Which intervention is most appropriate for the nurse to implement?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ABGs indicate respiratory alkalosis, which is caused by the increased respiratory rate. Because the increased respirations are most likely caused by the incisional pain, the first action by the nurse should be to medicate the patient for pain. The nasogastric tube is needed for postoperative gastric decompression and should remain connected to suction. Sodium bicarbonate administration will further increase the pH. Teaching the patient to take slow, deep breaths may be helpful, but it is unlikely to be effective until the pain level is decreased.

A Postoperative Patient with a Nasogastric Tube Connected to Low